What is one of the benefits of designing complete streets?

• A. Increased traffic congestion
• B. Improved health and safety for all users
• C. Less land required for infrastructure
• D. Reduced costs of road maintenance

Answer: (B)

Designing complete streets focuses on creating roadways that are accessible and safe for all types of users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and transit riders. One of the primary benefits of this approach is the improvement in health and safety for these diverse users.

By incorporating features such as bike lanes, wider sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and improved transit facilities, complete streets create a safer environment that encourages active transportation modes like walking and cycling. This can lead to increased physical activity among the population, which contributes to better overall public health outcomes. Furthermore, the design elements that prioritize safety, such as better lighting and clear signage, reduce the risk of accidents and enhance the sense of security for all road users.

In contrast, the other options do not reflect the core benefits of complete streets. While increased traffic congestion would typically contradict the goals of complete street design, less land required for infrastructure may not necessarily align with design principles that prioritize user experience and safety. Additionally, while reduced maintenance costs could be a potential side effect of well-designed infrastructure, the primary objective is more about user safety and inclusivity.